Bottle
Late 6th-7th century
Physical Qualities
Stoneware with straw-colored glaze, 9 1/2 H x 5 1/8 Diam. in. (24.1 x 13 cm.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Laurance P. and Isabel S. Roberts, Baltimore
Object Number
2005.114
Just as Eastern Han (25–220) green lead-glazed wares substituted for more
expensive bronze vessels, Tang dynasty white wares copied silver or bronze
forms. In the light of torches, oil lamps, lanterns, and candles, the white surfaces
would have resembled silver. Early white wares represent not only improvements
in the production techniques necessary for working with northern
kaolinic clays, but also an advance in the aesthetic qualities of clay vessels,
which became as beautiful as the metal originals.
The Baltimore Museum of Art, by bequest, 2005; Isabel S. Roberts, Baltimore; Laurance P. and Isabel S. Roberts, Baltimore
Markings: Pencil on paper label, on top of box, "This rubbing/hanging in/Director's office."
On View: Levy Gallery 2, Case 09/B
